Georgia: Statement by the Spokesperson marking 18 years since the outbreak of the war between Russia and Georgia

On 7 August, we mark 18 years since the outbreak of the 2008 war between Russia and Georgia, the consequences of which continue to undermine Georgia's security, sovereignty and territorial integrity, while also having profound humanitarian consequences to this day.

We reiterate our condemnation of Russia’s recognition of the occupied breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. We consider that Russia’s ongoing military presence and activities in these regions without the consent of Georgia’s government is illegal, violates international law and Russia's obligations under the 12 August 2008 six-point agreement.

The EU is concerned about Russia’s increasing attempts to de facto integrate the occupied breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia into Russia’s regulatory and security space. The so-called “Agreement on Deepening Allied Cooperation” signed on 9 May between Moscow and Tskhinvali, and the appointment of a Russian official as so-called “Acting President” of South Ossetia, have no validity under international law.

For 18 years, local communities have endured humanitarian challenges and human rights violations, including through restrictions to the freedom of movement and illegal detentions. Obstacles preventing internally displaced persons and refugees to return to their homes persist.

The EU remains fully committed to peaceful conflict resolution, including through its role as co-chair in the Geneva International Discussions (GID), the work of the EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the crisis in Georgia, and the continued presence of the EU Monitoring Mission (EUMM Georgia) as the sole international monitoring mission on the ground. We urge all GID participants to engage constructively in the discussions to achieve the full implementation of the 12 August 2008 six-point agreement and subsequent 8 September 2008 Implementing measures.

The European Union reaffirms its unwavering support for Georgia’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders and remains committed to fostering peace in the region.